Thursday, July 31, 2008

As our feature interview, this post will remain at the top of our page for the rest of the week. Scroll below this post to view our new posts. Keep it gangster!

We recently had the opportunity of interviewing Journal News columnist Sam Borden. Sam organized a charity walk a few weeks back to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Besides writing columns for the Journal News, Sam also posts regularly on the Face Off blog where he and fellow columnist Rick Carpiniello debate different topics. If you have not checked out the Face Off blog we highly recommend you give it a read. In this interview, Sam discusses his recent walk for charity, his thoughts on his transition from beat writer to columnist, and a new curse. Enjoy!1. You recently did a charity walk from Yankee Stadium to Shea Stadiumto raise money for the American Cancer Society. Could you explain what motivated you to take this walk and why you chose this specific cause?

Originally I was just going to do the walk as an idea for a column - it just seemed like an interesting way to write something different about the two-stadium doubleheader. Then, only a few days before the games, it occurred to me that I could try to make it a little more meaningful by raising some money. I chose the American Cancer Society because it's a charity that is particularly relevant to my family this past year -- my wife lost her father, who was an absolutely fantastic man and like a second dad to me, very suddenly last summer to kidney cancer.

The response from people - both that I knew and had never met before - was overwhelming.

Follow Up: What was the total raised for the cause?

Thanks to the generosity of people and the publicity generated by blogs (including this one), we ended up with over 150 donors and $10,000 in donations in, literally, about four days. The whole thing came together very quickly.

2. Would you have walked from Yankee stadium to Shea Stadium 15 years ago?

I'd like to think so. I might not have let my mother come along for part of it though.

3. You left the Daily News to become a sports columnist in Florida, writing on all things sports, not just baseball. What made you want to come back to the New York area to write columns more specifically focused on baseball?

Leaving the Daily News was a tough decision but I do think it was the right one, particularly since I'm very, very happy with where my career is right now. I enjoy writing about baseball but it was never my favorite sport growing up (the two teams I have always rooted for are the NY Rangers and Knicks -- I played hockey as a kid) so while covering the Yankees was a fantastic experience, getting the chance to do some different stuff was appealing.

My wife and I talk all the time about how much we loved Jacksonville - we lived literally a few blocks from the ocean. And I got to write about some terrific events - the Super Bowl, the Final Four, the BCS game and the Masters.

That said, the family aspect was difficult. We spent almost every weekend on a plane coming back to New York and Connecticut (where her family is from), and tried to see her father as much as possible. We were also planning our wedding. After her father passed in July, we immediately started thinking about coming back home to be closer to family.

We were married in October, and just after getting back from the honeymoon I began talking with The Journal News. The opportunity to work for a great paper based in my home area, and move back closer to her mom and my parents (who live in Westchester) was too good to pass up. The Journal News has given me a chance to write about everything - not just baseball - and, as you know, the topics in New York are never-ending.

4. What is the biggest change with regards to writing columns as opposed to game summaries and the type of material you wrote as a beat writer?

It's definitely a different experience. The simplest way to break down most columns is to lump them into one of two categories: Either take a side or tell a story. I don't necessarily prefer one over the other, and I think they're both appealing in different ways. I will say that I'm not the kind of columnist that HAS to have a take on everything -- if I don't feel strongly about something, I won't write an opinion that is manufactured.

The one thing people might not realize is that good reporting is still a big part of being a columnist. Whatever type of column I'm doing, I always do my reporting first - talk to people, ask questions, poke around at the issue to see what's what. That doesn't change just because I'm a columnist. Having been a beat writer, I know the value of information, and digging for that information is still a big part of making what I put in the paper interesting.

5. Who, in your opinion, is the best sports columnist out there today?

That's a tough question because I read so many different writers and so many different publications, yet at the same time I don't have any particular patterns. I'm a very sporadic and erratic Web surfer. I just read whatever looks interesting on that particular day. I don't have any writers that I read religiously, but there are many that I read a lot, if that makes any sense. There are so many good sports columnists - and general columnists and magazine writers - that I like read as many as I can and learn something from all of them.

6. Some beat writers regularly drink red bull in order to stay alert while trying to meet deadlines. Does this give them an unfair advantage over "clean" beat writers? Should BWAA ban red bull and institute regular testing? Why can't beat writers stay alert on beer like they used to in the old days?

The Red Bull issue is an interesting one, and one that I'm sure the BBWAA will be looking into closely. I will say that I have not drank ANY caffeine in years - true story, I swear - which, in retrospect, probably hurt my performance when I was on the beat. Do I regret that? Honestly, it keeps me up some nights ...

7. Can you tell us about any stories you're working on? Any book projects on the horizon?

The stories and columns I do change from week to week and there are a bunch that I'm hoping to get to before the summer ends. After I did a very long Phil Hughes story at the start of the season, several readers asked if I was going to do similar pieces on Joba and Ian Kennedy, which was a good idea. Unfortunately, Joba has had just about as much coverage as any pitcher in the history of the world this year, and Kennedy ... well, I'm not sure a story on him would be very good at this point. Then again, that could change soon.

As for books, I actually recently finished a book in the Complete Idiot's Guide series. It's The Complete Idiot's Guide to Soccer Basics, and it's slated to be out in February 2009. Soccer is my first love in sports, and this book is for parents who might not totally get what's going on when their kid signs up to play soccer. I hope you guys will check it out!

8. If you could interview a former ball player who would it be, and what would be your first question?This is a great question. I think I'd want to sit and talk with Jackie Robinson for as long as he'd be willing to talk to me. I guess my first question would be, "How did you do it?" or some variation on that, because I have always been fascinated by people who are so closely tied to changes in our culture that are monumental. I mean, think about what he did! I think I'd also want to ask, "How scared were you of what you were doing?"

9. In your faceoff blog you discussed the question of whether or not Derek Jeter is overrated. Why do you think this topic seems to pop up every year?

Because people like to talk about the stars, mostly. Jeter is a great player. I don't claim to know enough about the statistics that evaluate his defensive capabilities, but I do know that - like most athletes and human beings - he's probably lost a step as he's gotten older. Would I say he's overrated? I don't think so. Baseball is, ultimately, a team game, and he's been a big part of his team's success for a very, very long time.

10. In your opinion, why is Derek Jeter the best defensive shortstop in the game?

(shaking head ....)11. Since he arrived in New York, aspects of A-Rod's personal life have often been covered in the media. As a sports writer how do you feel about this? Does this sort of coverage cross the line or is it fair game in this era of celebrity obsession and TMZ?

I think it's generally fair game, though I think people should recognize that most sports writers have little to do with the more celebrity-style reporting that goes on. My feeling on athletes and their personal lives is generally that you can't have it both ways - you can't expect your celebrity to bring you good things (free stuff, support of fans, donations to your charity, etc.) and not also expect the so-called "bad" stuff (public scrutiny, paparazzi, etc.). It's just part of the deal.12. Chien-Ming Wang, whom you, Pete Abe, and Mark Feinsand wrote a book about, is now on the DL. Is it fair to speak of an Abe-Borden-Feinsand curse?

Not only is it fair, I'd say it's pretty obvious. How do you think Scott Boras would feel about the three of us working on an A-Rod project?

13. What do you think MLB should do about the maple bat crisis?

I don't know, but they should do something. It's hard to do anything in the middle of a season, so I guess they'll just cross their fingers that nothing tragic happens the rest of this year and then - hopefully - do an across-the-board ban this winter. It's pretty obvious these bats are very dangerous.

14. You have the faceoff blog now, and used to write your own blog a few years back before moving to Florida, which you updated regularly. How many times a day do you frequent the Respect Jeter's Gangster blog, and why is it your favorite blog?

I like any blog that has the word "Gangster" in it, frankly. As for how many times a day, I would say between 1 and 100.

15. And lastly, what do you respect most about Jeter's gangster?

His old-school trench coat, mostly.

So there you have it! Sam loves sports, and visits the "Respect Jeters Gangster" blog 100 times a day. We'd like to thank Sam for taking his time to complete this interview with us, and wish him the best with his newest book project due in stores February, 2009.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Mussina went seven giving up only two runs. 4 Yankees had home runs, including Wilson Betemit and Jose Molina. Molina went 3 for 3 and scored 3 runs. That's gangster. It was a cool day in New York as it had rained in the early afternoon. Good time all around.

The Bad

The Angels pitching was pretty bad. They'll have to try harder next time. Also bad, the fact that this game was televised but I missed it because I had to go into work.

The Ugly

The Angels were fined as a team for spiking their gatorade coolers with HGH. The league became suspicious when they won 2 straight games against the Yankees.

The Charitable Contribution

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Four Yankees hit home runs today, once again showing disdain for my brother's fixed income.

So we got our arses handed to us by the Angels yesterday. We may be in for a few days of this as our new starting catcher is still learning the pitchers and the signs. I'm sure half the game was Pudge thinking, "why does Andy throw a slider everytime I call for a fastball," and Andy thinking, "why is pudge calling for a knuckle ball? I don't throw a knuckle ball!" That will pass though, eventually the pitchers and the new catcher will be on the same page. We did score six runs last night, and as long as the offense continues to perform this team will be okay. If only we had a fourth reliable pitcher.

Cashman has been making some brilliant moves thus far that have definitely bettered the team, but he has yet to land the player they really need: a starting pitcher. Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte for Ohlendorf, Tabata, Karstens, and McCutchen was a brilliant move, as we received two big league players for four on the cusp guys who may or may not pan out. Kyle Farnsworth for Pudge Rodriguez was great because Pudge is a winner, and comes from the same island as myself and Jorge Posada, which makes us all awesome. Then Cashman moves Latroy Hawkins who had been DFA'd to the Astro's for a minor league prospect. That move doesn't have an immediate impact, but the fact that he got anything for Hawkins makes it amazing. If Cashman trades Kei Igawa for Scott Kazmir there will likely be an independent investigation into Cashman's dealings.

But in all reality, the Yankees need a pitcher. Doesn't have to be an ace, just someone better than Ponson and Rasner. If Washburn doesn't pan out, which hurts the Mariners more than us, who should we try and get? Do we not make a trade and hope for the best from Hughes, Kennedy, or dare I say Carl Pavano?

I would say the 13 run offense was a positive yesterday with Nady hitting two doubles, and Abreu hitting two homeruns. Chamberlain pitched a stellar 6 innings of 2 run ball, though 1 of those runs was unearned. Robertson and Giese combined for 3 innings of 1 run ball.

The Bad

A sloppy error by Cano cost the Yankees a run. Cano should think about what he did.

The Ugly

Edwar Ramirez showed how much movement his fastball has when he threw it over Kevin Millar's head prompting an immediate ejection. Millar believed there was intent and was quoted as saying “I was upset they threw him out of the game because he’s really good hitting. He’s a cute little fellow, he doesn’t throw that hard and he doesn’t have very good stuff. So it’s probably a good idea they threw him out, because it probably would’ve been in Monument Park.(Source)” That's one way to ensure Ramirez won't miss the next time.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Abreu showed a big heart when he hit two homeruns to help further children's health. Others should learn from his example.

I can't say for sure whether or not Cashman will bring balance to the force, but he's definitely got Jedi Mind powers over other GMs. First he got Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte for various office supplies (who but W.B. Mason?). Now he has managed to trade for the one of the best catchers of all time. That is quite a defensive tandem, I-Rod and Molina, and Cashman has only given up one real player in order to achieve all of this (Farnsworth). Now I hear a trade for Washburn is in the works where Seattle will take Kei Igawa and pay both his and Washburn's full salaries. It's amazing really, Cash definitely has learned to control the Force.

(You know I'm cool when I write entire blog posts about the Force. I'd have written more but my head gear got in the way)

Although Rasner's final line of 6 innings and 4 runs doesn't look all that good, 2 of those runs would have been avoided had he not gone out to pitch in the 7th or if Marte could get an out without loading the bases and giving up a double. Veras pitched a scoreless inning with 2 strikeouts. The offense was generally alive, scoring 6 runs on 13 hits, with 4 Yankees having multi-hit games. Christian and Jeter both took a bag.

The Bad

Damaso Marte got roughed up yesterday pitching an inning with 2 earned runs, but also allowed his inherited runners to score as well. If it wasn't enough to be down 6 runs, Mariano Rivera allowed a solo shot to put the O's at 7 runs. The Yankees lost 7-6.

The Ugly

Is anything worse than having your player strikeout in the 9th with a runner in scoring position and down by a run? Wilson Betemit was awful last night, even by his standards. He went 0-5. Cabrera also went hitless going 0-4. Also, does Bobby Meacham guess every time he needs to send or hold a runner at third? He's been awful at it all season.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. A-Rod hit a solo shot last night..

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

According to the New York Post, Hideki Matsui had a good day rehabbing, and thinks he could get into some games soon. This one good day of rehabbing comes after approximately 30 bad days of rehabbing, so some fans still remain skeptical. In other rehab news, Jorge Posada is deciding to not rehab, and instead go for the surgery. This is good news for those with high hopes for the 2009 season. The 6 month recovery time puts Posada on pace to return about 4-6 weeks before Carl Pavano.

It would appear that the Washburn deal has gone cold as the Mariners want a top prospect in addition to having the Yankees pick up about $13.6 million of his contract. Although the Yankees appear to be the only team interested in this trade, the Mariners still believe they have leverage. The original offer from the Yankees of Kei Igawa and an autographed picture of John Sterling was not accepted. Apparently the Mariners want the Yankees to remove Kei Igawa from the trade, but the Yankees said they will only trade the John Sterling photo if Kei Igawa is included in the offer. In a related story, the potential trade for Washburn does not concern Rasner. It does however scare the crap out of Sydney Ponson.

The Yankees have promoted pitchers Mark Melancon and Chase Wright to Tripple A Scranton. You may remember Chase Wright as the lefty who gave up 4 consecutive homeruns to the Red Sox a year ago. Although we have not confirmed this, the word on the streets is that Wright developed an out pitch known as a "slider" that rumors claim slides away from the strikezone making it more difficult to hit homeruns off of. You may also remember Mark Melancon as the pitcher who was reportedly promoted to Scranton about 3 sentences ago.

Lastly, the Yankees decided last minute to keep Phil Coke out of the trade with the Pirates on account of his name being to gangster to not have in a Yankee uniform. They had originally planned to trade Coke to the Pirates in the deal that landed Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte but pulled him last minute when they realized infielder Jimmy Triggerfinger and relief pitcher Tommy Gatz were still several years from the majors.

The Yankee offense wasn't bad, as they scored 4 runs including a 3 run homer by Damon and a solo shot by Nady, but they still lost by 9 runs. Ramirez-Marte-Veras pitched a combined 2.2 innings with 4 strikeouts including two for the former Buc.

The Bad

Releif pitching did not help the cause as Robertson allowed 5 runs while only recording one out, and Farnsworth gave up a pair of runs in the inning he pitched.

The Ugly

Mussina took a beating of 5 innings and 6 earned runs allowing 2 homeruns in that time. The road to 20 wins is paved with bumpy starts, but he needs to recover quickly. He tends to fade in the second half, so here's hoping the offense can get him some wins the same way they got him some losses when he pitched well in the early half.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Johnny Damon jacked one to keep himself on pace for his first 30 homerun season, as did newest Yankee addition Xavier Nady.

Monday, July 28, 2008

Three Yankee players had 2-hit games and Dan Giese pitched 4 innings of 2 run ball in relief of Ponson. I suppose that isn't that good but I have very little to work with.

The Bad

Ponson gave up 7 runs in 4 innings of work. If Cashman was waiting for this game to pull the trigger on that Washburn trade, I hope he's pulled it, cocked it back, pulled it again, reloaded, and pulled it a few more times for good measure.

The Ugly

This game could have been much closer if the Yankees hadn't reverted to their pre-all star break selves. They could not get a hit with runners in scoring position, and when they had Lester in a load of trouble in the 5th, they let him go without causing much harm. They had just scored 2 runs and had the bases loaded with no outs, and they did nothing with it. A good hit would have put us right back into it. Instead, A-Rod lines out, Nady pops up, and Cano pops up. That inning alone lost us the game. Nady seems like he's really pressing at the plate. He's yet to get a hit, and he's looked awful with his swings.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns last night. Cold bats led to a Boston blow out.

Sunday, July 27, 2008

If this most recent series has shown us anything it is that the Red Sox biggest weakness is their bullpen. When going on all cylinders, their offense can help make up for this but that won't matter as we get later into the season and especially when we get to October. The Yanks made a good trade to strengthen their bullpen this week and that is going to help them make a run. I still don't think the Rays are going to go away, and so if the Sox bullpen doesn't shape up this may be a Yanks-Rays division race. You can never count the Sox out, they're too good, but without a strong bullpen I don't see how they remain a strong contender for the division. Look at the Yanks, the only reason they're even in contention is because their bullpen has locked things down (their starting pitching has also been good, but often for six innings at a time, bringing us back to the bullpen making leads stick). This should be an interesting couple of months.

Saturday, July 26, 2008

This offense is really picking it up. That's 10 runs off 13 hits with 5 Yankees having multiple hits and 6 Yankees driving in runs. The C&C boys have really been heating up as they both had a multi hit game and Cano drove in 3 runs including a game tieing solo shot to center. Pettitte pitched 6 innings of 3 run ball but only 1 of those runs was earned. Veras-Marte-Ramirez-Roberston pitched a combined 3 innings of scoreless relief with Marte getting his first taste of the rivalry by striking out Ortiz.

The Bad

A-Rod's error in the first led to two unearned runs, which makes Dante Girardi weep every night.

The Ugly

A-Rod got hit by 96 mph heat from Hansen. I know A-Rod pretty much understands that he's a big target and that's going to happen, but it doesn't make it hurt any less. I suspect tomorrow may lead to a brawl, especially if Farnsworth pitches and Manny bats.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Cano has put himself ahead in the C&C homerun chase as he hit his 9th homerun of the season. Cano & Cabrera are embarking on a quest for Derek Jeter's single season homerun record of 24 homeruns set by Yankee Shortstop and Captain, Derek Jeter.

By now most of you have heard that the Yankees and Pirates made a trade that will bring Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte to New York and send Ross Ohlendorf, Jose Tabata, Phil Coke, and George Kontos to Pittsburgh. Personally, I think this is a fantastic trade. A lefty reliever like Marte is hard to come by, and we weren't going to use Christian and Gardner as our left fielders for the rest of the season. Nady isn't the most powerful bat in the lineup, but he's a professional hitter and you can expect him to have some pop. He's having one of his better seasons right now as he's batting .330 and has 13 homeruns. If he keeps that up, he'll be just fine replacing Matsui. Marte has 47 strikeouts to 16 walks, which speaks well of his control, and his 3.47 ERA is not bad for a reliever. I always wonder how relievers will do coming from the National League, but I think this kid will be fine.

It was interesting that we gave up Tabata a once well recognized prospect in our system. This season he's had a lot disciplinary problems and I'm sure the Yankees weren't too upset about losing him. Ohlendorf was sent down to Scranton and they used him as a starter. He was doing pretty good at it too. Kontos and Coke I know less about, though Coke was also starting to hit his stride as a starter. The fact is, Cashman got us two major league ready players for some talented guys who may or may not make it to the bigs. It was a good trade.

Youkilis and Chamberlain

So Chamberlain threw a ball over Youkilis' head again, and every time it happens it seems less like a mistake. It would seem unlikely that he would try to plate the lead off batter in the 7th of a 1-0 game, but I don't really buy that it just got away from him. In fairness to Joba, Youkilis' face looks like an alien is eating his face, and if you listen closely, you'll hear Joba yelling "Youk! It's on your face again!" before throwing the ball. I think he was just trying to knock the alien off and save his good friend Youk, only to remember that Youk just looks like an alien's trying to eat his face, not that an alien is actually eating his face. Easy mistake to make.

Sweet Dreams

I had a dream a week or so ago that Russell "Stringer" Bell from the HBO show The Wire, was pitching for the Yankees against the Red Sox. Dustin Pedroia was up to bat, and Stringer hit him on his leg. Pedroia rushed the mound only to have Stringer put him in a head lock, walk him over to second base, and then land a powerful right to knock him onto the ground. It was kind of strange, but oddly funny.

Friday, July 25, 2008

The Yankees won a 1-0 game against the Red Sox, who started the influenza epidemic of 1918, drunk off their latest World Series victory. Joba went the deepest he's ever gone into a game, 7 innings on 103 pitches. Also, he and Youk made up. Mo got the last five outs of the game to record his 26th save in as many attempts.

The Bad

Farnsworth only managed one out in the eighth and put two men on. Luckily Mo was there to bail him out, and only needed 8 pitches to do so.

The Ugly

The Red Sox, distraught over the loss of this close game, all came out on the field after the last strike was called on J.D. Drew (aka J.D.D.) and tore their jerseys. They then all wept in fetal positions, and at least three players soiled themselves. It wasn't clear whether the soiling occurred before or after the end of the game.

The Tax Deduction

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. No home runs today as the only run came on a Giambi single. A-Rod was going to hit a home run, but he didn't feel like it.

As the Yankees and Red Sox begin another series at Fenway we should all take a moment to remind ourselves of a few things. The Red Sox are not pure evil, but they are evil. Fenway is not as nice as Yankee Stadium, that's why we got the all-star game and they only got to manage it (losers!). Sometimes, when David Ortiz gets hungry, he demands to be fed the children of the Boston villagers. Seeing as most Bostonians are unfit parents, they really don't mind. Also, before every game, Derek Jeter provides new textbooks for a struggling public school. Posada helps clean up animals covered in oil from the Exxon-Valdez spill, which everyone knows was caused when Larry Lucchino's Yacht crashed into the otherwise sound oil transportation vessel.

I was listening to the Fan this morning and former Giants QB Phil Simms was going on about how Posada trying to stay in the line up instead of opting for surgery is selfish. Let me start by saying, #&%$@ Phil Simms. Second, it appears Posada would prefer surgery but that certain number crunchers want to try to squeeze some value out of him because of the big contract they just gave him. Let me continue by saying, #&%$@ Randy Levine. As though you haven't ever gotten anything from Posada. He's done nothing but play well for you his entire career, and you act like he's some free agent signing or worse Carl Pavano? I hope Posada kicks your arse at the next winter meetings. Then I'll kick your arse, not that I'll ever meet you, on account of your super wealthy and I'm decidedly not and we don't really hang in the same places. But if I ever see you at my barber shop on 109th and Amsterdam, it's on!

My point is, no one should look at Posada as selfish for this situation, they should want to beat up Randy Levine. Mr. Levine may feel free to guest blog a response here at RJG.

According to Peter Abraham who was quoting the AP, Hank and the Yankee Brain Trust had a meeting the other day in which one of the items discussed was Barry Bonds. Because of this report I decided to come up with 100 reasons for why we should not sign Barry Bonds. However, have you ever tried to come up with a list 100 reasons long? You lose interest half way through, and then find yourself wondering why you ever tried to come up with a list 100 reasons long in the first place. So I'm not going to come up with 100 reasons for why not to sign Barry Bonds, I'm instead going to come up with the best reasons and let you all provide your own.

1. Barry Bonds is a PED user who won't admit to it. His personal trainer spent years in jail because he refused to testify about Bonds. I sure hope he's getting some of the $16 million Bonds' was paid last season.2. He's not ready and would require time to get ready. Then how good do you think he'll be? I don't think he'll be as succesful against AL pitchers who are used to facing a regular DH.3. I can't prove this yet as I am still gathering information, but I'm pretty sure Bonds eats children. Now were not just talking about a ball game, were talking about putting your families lives in danger.4. Bonds' hates the media, which is different from being unfriendly with the media. Bonds' won't even talk to them. I'm sure it was fine in San Francisco, but how will that fair in New York City?5. Bonds' hates his teammates. He has a big ego, and I don't mean like Reggie Jackson, I mean like a pop star ego. I mean like Rick James circa 1980. He doesn't consider those around him his equals. Last season Bonds' was busted for using Amphetamines, and then tried to blame it on teammate Mark Sweeney. What's next? He scored his "flax seed oil" from A-Rod? I'm not having that.6. Bonds' ego. Its bad enough that he has a big ego, but what will happen when a non-power hitter like Derek Jeter keeps getting dates with all the beautiful women, and Bonds gets no love? He'll probably flip and punch a trash can, which will injure his hand, and limit him to hitting singles for a few weeks. We don't need that.7. Bonds' speed. He's slow. Do you really want to see Bonds' hit a screaming single to left field, only to see the left fielder throw him out at first? I don't.8. Bonds' body is too big for him. Even if he does get in shape for the season, what is the likelihood that his over burdened knees won't go or some other freak injury attributed to his freak size won't happen? We'd be paying money for an injured player, and unfortunately Pavano already has that role locked down.9. He can only DH. He's not a left fielder anymore, and playing him in the field would be both inappropriate and irresponsible. That being said, all he can do is hit, and with a team with a lot of aging players, the DH role is needed to give guys a rest. How will Bonds' react when Giambi gets to DH over him?10. He plays the guitar. I just don't want to hear what a Barry Bonds' written song would sound like.11. Barry Bonds' entourage. Now this isn't the cool entourage from the HBO show, its Barry Bonds' entourage. I don't know everyone involved in his entourage, but I imagine Jean-Claude Van Damme and Jose Canseco are in it, and who wants Jean-Claude Van Damme and Jose Canseco in their clubhouse?12. Bonds' legal troubles. Bonds' could get called before a federal jury at any time, and then the Yankees would be right where they were before signing him. Not a good solution.13. Bonds isn't a winner. He played for the Pittsburgh Pirates and the San Francisco Giants. He hit a bunch of homeruns for those teams, especially the Giants, but how many championships did he lead them to? Post seasons? Do you really want him rubbing that Pittsburgh and San Francisco loser attitude off in our clubhouse? Just saying.14. Bonds hates charity. I wouldn't be surprised if he didn't hit any homeruns just to not help raise money for the Children's Health Fund. Okay that might not be true, but still, I don't like the guy.15. Bonds has attitude issues. Do you really want to hear about a brawl breaking out in the clubhouse between Bonds' and Farnsworth? Okay, me too. But how would you like to be standing behind Bonds' at one of the million Starbucks' in Manhattan while he gives the attendant lip because there wasn't enough froth in his latte? What the heck is froth?16. Bonds did not participate in the World Baseball Classic. He said he had no country to play for since Douchebagovia decided to back out of the tournament.17. Bonds' head is too big for his body. The proportions are way off. How will the Yankees find a batting helmet big enough for him? Then they have to get one custom made, and that's more money out the Teixeira Signing Fund the Stein brothers' been dropping their spare cash into.18. Bonds' to retire as a Yankee? Really? I for one would never want this to happen.19. Bonds' to retire as a Met? I would much rather prefer that. If I was Cashman I'd try to convince Minaya to pull the trigger on that one. Set it up as a practical joke. Maybe take him out to lunch, and have the waitor switch the check with Bonds' contract for the year. He signs by the x, Cashman leaves the tip, and Barry Bonds' is a Met for the rest of the season.20. Barry being Barry? Who wants to hear that every time he refuses to do an interview with Kim Jones or whenever Cano runs into Bonds at second base because he couldn't go to third despite Cano's scorching double to center?21. Make your own. You know what they say, 20's the new 100.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Jorge Posada wants to choose rehabbing his shoulder and remaining as a DH/Firstbaseman over pursuing the surgery. He says that it doesn't hurt while batting but he is limited by the injury at the plate, and is especially limited while batting left handed. I think this is a bad move for Posada. I understand he wants to be apart of a playoff push and a potential post season, but I wonder if he may sacrifice more of his future to keep playing injured now. Not to mention that a surgery in October will lead to a 6 month recovery time ending in late April, and I doubt we'd see him for some time after that. Further more, what can we really expect from an injured Posada? Better than Moeller? Sure. But he said himself that batting lefty was troublesome and with that goes the Yankee stadium homers. Were going to be seeing about a .270 average out of him with little pop. Is this really worth sacrificing the injury? What do you all think? Keep him in or make him get the surgery?

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Wow. That's all I can say about Mussina's outing today. 8 innings, no runs, 7 strikeouts, no walks. I for one was concerned Mussina may tire in the second half, but thus far the man continues to be sharp. The Yankee offense came to life again scoring 5 runs, with Justin Christian hitting a 2 RBI double to further the Yankee cause. Christian, Cano, Cabrera and Jeter all had 2 hit games. Christian also stole a base. Good game for the man.

The Bad

No hits for Damon, Abreu, Sexson, or Molina though Sexson had a sac fly to bring in a run.

The Ugly

At this point I think I just feel bad for Hawkins. They put him in with a 5 - 0 lead, he gives up a series of hits that leads to a run scoring and runners on the corner, and then he has to give it up to Mariano to get the last out, which he did with a strikeout. The point is, they shouldn't have had to use Mariano. Hawkins is the Farnsworth of last season and there's no worse person to be then the Farnsworth of last season.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns today as the Yankees felt they've hit too many in recent games. Nothing but clean doubles today.

Rasner put up a good outing throwing 5.2 innings of 2 run ball. Robertson-Veras-Farnsworth-Giese pitched a combined 3.1 innings of scoreless relief with Farnsworth striking out 3 in his inning. The offense came alive in the later innings with a homerun by Abreu, and RBI's for Jeter and Cano. Abreu, A-Rod and Cano all had 2 hits.

The Bad

No love for Cabrera, Moeller, or Gardner in the hits column. That's still three spots in the lineup you'd like to see more out of.

The Ugly

Abreu hit his 3 run homer off a guy named Slowey. What a name for a pitcher. Also, the Yankees committed 2 errors. You can't do that.Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Abreu hit a 3-run jack last night to help the cause.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

With the alleged appearance of an A-Rod sex tape, it is only a matter of time before A-Rod has his own reality television show. Most people know A-Rod as someone who is simply famous for being famous. Now, he will be famous for being on TV, something rare for the media shy random guy who slept with Madonna. No doubt he will soon be doing regular everyday tasks for our viewing pleasure, perhaps Madonna will join him. He could also pursue pointless physical trials on some idyllic tropical location closely monitored by health professionals so that he can then claim to be a "survivor." Hard to say, but we know that A-Rod's star is finally on the rise. He'll finally receive all that attention he's been pining for since youth, and we will all be better people as a result.

It appears that Jorge Posada's arm has taken legal action against his former body and owner for abuse, neglect and defamation. The arm has hired famed attorney Rusty Hardin to help sue Posada for over $3.3 million in damages. Posada's arm prepared and read a statement, which was a little awkward since Posada was right there as it wrote and read the statement. Here is what Posada's arm had to say:

"A lot of people are looking at me these days as if I've let them down. I've been so strong and consistant over the years that people can't accept that I've been abused. I mean a labrum and a rotator cuff tear? Those two alone are enough to knock you out for half a year, and yet this jerk keeps using me with both tears. The fact is, Jorge Posada abused me. Then he goes on record saying: 'The shoulder is messed up. I have no power when I go to make a throw and there’s pain every time I make a throw.' No frickin' kidding! I told you I was hurt at spring training, I told you it was serious, and what do you do? You take a couple days off, and then go back to throwing as hard as you can. You're saying I'm messed up, and that I don't have power. I'd beat the crap out of you if I wasn't in so much pain Posada. You hear me!! This isn't over! (Assorted security begin seperating the two). I'm coming for you Posada!! You Hear me! You come at the king, you best not miss mother(expletive deleted)!! I'm the Osirus of this (expletive deleted)!! You try to look your wife and kids in the eyes and tell them you're useless! It breaks my heart Posada!! It breaks my frickin' heart!"

Rusty Hardin had this to add: "Posada has neglected, abused and defamed my client. In fact we have this recorded phone conversation with Posada that proves all these points."

Arm: What's up?Posada: Nothing, how are you?Arm: I just want the truth to get out.Posada: What truth, what are you talking about?Arm: The truth Posada. I'm just very upset about everything.Posada: I know. Things are tough right now, but you've always been good to me. I can't deny that.Arm: Then why would you say I'm messed up, and don't have power?Posada: What do you want me to do? Tell me and I'll do it.Arm: I just want the truth to come out. Posada: Tell me what you want me to do.Arm: I'm just looking for the truth. I mean I've always been straight with you.Posada: I know. I learned how to be a great father from you. Arm: I just want truth.Posada: Why do you keep saying that?Arm: I want truth Posada. Truth and nothing else.Posada: Look, tell me what you want and I'll do it.Arm: Truth.Posada: I don't know what that means. What else do you want?Arm: I mean, can you get me some bengay?Posada: Yeah, right after I throw this runner out.Arm: OWWW!!!Posada: Man, way short. Oh well, maybe next time.

"As everyone can clearly see, my client has been abused, neglected and defamed by Jorge Posada, and we are willing to testify to congress about this one."

It is yet to be determined how the defamation suit will effect the Yankees who are now riding a 4 game winning streak.

Ponson pitched a decent 5.2 innings of 3 run ball, but the Yankee offense scored 12 to get the win. A-Rod, Cano, and Jeter all hit homeruns, and 6 Yankees had multiple hits including Molina and Melky. Ramirez and Robertson pitched 1.1 perfect innings in relief.

The Bad

Jason Giambi was not invited to the ever popular hits party. There's always one who doesn't get invited.

The Ugly

It was revealed yesterday that Jorge Posada's shoulder is in fact still injured and he will likely need surgery to repair a torn labrum and torn rotator cuff. Matsui wants to hold off on his knee surgery and try to rehab, but that's likely not to work. That's a lot of production to go without.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. It was a good night for children's health as A-Rod, Jeter and Cano all hit one out. Cano is now tied with Melky in the Great C&C homerun race. As you all know, Cano and Melky are in an historic race to topple Derek Jeter's single season homerun record of 24 homeruns set by Yankee shortstop and captain, Derek Jeter.

Monday, July 21, 2008

A spectacular pitching performance by Andy Pettitte where he went 8 innings and only gave up 1 run and recorded 9 strikeouts. Mariano saved the game with a shutout inning of his own. Cano and Giambi had 2 hit games with Giambi going yard to put the Yankees ahead.

The Bad

Betemit, Cabrera, Molina and Gardner went hitless yesterday. In fairness, Duchereserer is a good pitcher.

The Ugly

Duchscherer's name. I don't even want to try and pronounce it. I can't even spell it without having the A's depth chart open in front of me.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Despite the low scoring game, Giambi managed to barely put one out for children's health.

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Chamberlain pitched 6 innings of 1 run ball with 8 strikeouts. Cano had 4 hits and 4 different Yankees had 2 hits. I suppose that isn't as impressive when you consider they played into the 12th but hey. The bottom part of the order pushed in all runs with Melky, Betemit, Gardner and Molina knocking them in. Molina got the winning rbi when he got hit by a pitch with the bases loaded. I'll take it. Farnsworth, Ramirez, and Robertson combined for 4 innings of shutout ball with 6 strikeouts.

The Bad

Veras gave up the tieing run in the 7th, and then Mariano gave up the go ahead in the 9th. Who would have thought that he was human! Still, it wasn't a save situation so he's yet to blow a save this season. A-Rod went 0-5 with 3 strikeouts. Also, this game went into extra innings, which is fine if you were watching from home, but sitting in the bleachers with that sun pounding down on your head for 12 innings can be really exhausting.

The Ugly

Justin Christian pinch ran for Jason Giambi in the 9th. He took off with a mighty jump and was sprinting full speed towards second when suddenly his legs out did themselves, he tripped, face planted and was thrown out at second. I felt bad for him, but it was kind of funny too.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns today, but a couple yesterday as A-Rod and Cano both hit one out. That puts Cano one homerun closer to Melky in the C&C homerun chase. The two players have been trying to topple the most sacred record in baseball: Derek Jeter's single season homerun record of 24 homeruns, set by Derek Jeter.

My brother wanted me to do the game summary, but I've been out all day. That and I didn't really want to. Now I'm about to go out for dinner and so I don't have much time to do it now. Considering today's game is already over, last night's game just won't get as much attention as it should, but I'll give the highlights anyway.

Mussina won his twelfth game solidifying himself as the team's ace and AARP liaison.

Sexson had an RBI single in his first at-bat, once again proving Cashman is a genius.

The Yankees won, which we here at RJG prefer to the Yankees losing.

Today's game's wrap up will come soon. My brother was there so expect to get a good feel for what a bleacher seat feels like in 96 degree whether.

Friday, July 18, 2008

The Yankees face left handed pitcher Greg Smith tonight as the previous Oakland starter, Joe Blanton was traded to the Phillies. I don't know about you, but that sounds like a made up name. It was probably the first thing that came to his mind when Beane was asked who was going to start today. Going against Greg Smith is the Moose, who I'm stilling pulling for to win 20 this season, though the chances are much slimmer. The Yankees needed to win at least 1 more of his last 4 starts, and honestly, the way he pitched they should have won all 4. But the Yankees like to pick one pitcher every season who they won't score runs for, and it just so happens that this season, they picked the entire starting rotation, which Moose is unfortunately apart of. He needs a win tonight, so Sexson better get his bat ready.

Tomorrow I will be at the game to watch Joba take on Justin Douchsterer. Yes I misspelled his name, and no I don't care. I waisted too much time figuring out how to spell Mientkiewicz correctly, and then they let him go after one year. Anyway, getting back to tomorrow's game...I've yet to see Joba pitch live as a starter so I'm excited to see him. Douchsterer is a pretty good pitcher himself though (10-5 record with a 1.82 ERA), so it could shape up to be a pitchers duel.

In case you missed it, here's Jose Canseco getting knocked out. Can you believe that this guy played for the Yankees and has a championship ring with us? And on that note...

Some people have been calling for the signing of Barry Bonds. A giant homerun hitting lefty sounds like something the Yankees could use right? Signing Barry Bonds is an awful idea. I'm already upset that Canseco ever wore the pinstripes, and I'd be even more so with Bonds. Are you going to go from Ruth, Gehrig, Dimaggio, Berra, Mantle, Jackson, Munson, Mattingly, Jeter to Bonds? Even if he could single handedly bring us to the world series this year (which he can't), I still wouldn't want him. Now some people believe he can take us to the post season so let me break down the delusion. Bonds has not been playing so he's going to need time to get ready. At best he'd be ready by August, and then what kind of production can you expect from him? 8 homeruns, a .270 average maybe, 18 runs batted in scattered across 55 games? Yeah, that will walk us right into the post season. And that's only if he can stay healthy at his age and at his comic book action size. Signing Bonds is a horrible idea. I am not opposed however to the Yankees pulling off a trade for a hitter. I don't care that he's injured, bring back Soriano! Alright, I'm done.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

After several days of running numbers and negotiating with agents, Brian Cashman has finally completed the blockbuster deal that will bring Richie Sexson to New York. With the Yankees playing like stagnant water, Cashman hopes the addition of Sexson will help stir them waters up. Cashman explains some of the thought process that went into signing Sexson:

"I was kind of like 'should I bet this $119,000 on the horse races, or should I sign Richie Sexson?' then my assistant told me Mocha Thunder was injured and that's who I planned to bet on, so I figured 'what the heck, let's sign Sexson.'"

When asked what Sexson brings to the Yankees Cashman was very specific:

"Sexson brings height, and with that fear. Opposing pitchers will be terrified of him, especially if we have him go out there with a club instead of a bat. They'd think he was an ogre! Haha! That's kind of funny. Any way, yeah, he brings height. I hope that after facing him, pitchers won't be able to readjust their strike zone, and will leave a few pitches up for whoever bats behind him."

When asked what Sexson bring defensively, Cashman responded:

"Who cares? The guys like 8 feet tall! How can he not help us defensively? Maybe I'll have him play outfield and knock down homeruns. He's waisted at first base."

In the days leading up to the all-star game there was a lot of talk about how much better the AL is than the NL (both in terms of interleague, WS, and All-Star game records in the last 15 or so years). Much of it is attributed to the DH. The logic is with the DH the pitchers had to get better in the AL, which then forced the hitters to do likewise.

A lot of NL fans whine about how the NL is more pure and it involves more strategy. Do we take out the pitcher in a close game in later innings or keep him in? Who cares. First of all, pitchers hitting has become as gimmicky as the hotdog racing the popcorn at minor league stadiums. Oh look folks, the pitcher is trying to hit. Isn't he cute? Nobody wants to watch pitchers hit. Crappy hitting does not equal strategy, just a far less competitive league. That's my take, how about yours?

Much has been written about the Yankees lackluster first half, and questions have been raised as to whether the Yankees can turn things around. The most effective way to deal with a problem is to first identify it. Once the problem has been identified then it can be addressed. So what has been the Yankees problem? We at the "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog have put together a list of possible reasons for the Yankees first half mediocrity.

1) Girardi has been pumping up his team with Avril Lavigne music again. 2) Although the Yankees uncovered the David Ortiz jersey buried in the visiting clubhouse of the new stadium, they have yet to find the 500 Bill Buckner jersey's buried all over the foundation of the new Yankee stadium.3) Damon's been spiking the water cooler.4) The Yankees thought "small ball" was Girardi's way of saying "don't score runs."5) The curse of Bernie Williams?6) We have Betemit and Gardner batting back-to-back.7) The Yankees have been waiting for their savior, Carl Pavano, to ride in and save them.8) The Yankees are too down about the current gas prices and market conditions to play ball.9) Turns out the root of all their success all these years was candy.10) They'll turn things around when they feel like it, respect their gangster.11) Girardi hasn't given that one speech where he gets real worked up, punches the trainer's table, pours hot coffee on himself while tearing up pictures of Madonna and yells obscenities about Jeffrey Loria, then ends it by performing an interpretive dance whose meaning has something to do with fighting communism. Its how he did things with the Marlins.12) The joint curse of Bernie Williams and Joe Torre and maybe even Madonna? Scott Patterson? Chris Britton? Who else have the Yankees scorned in the last year?

Other options left off the list were "Age" and "Lack of Interest" because they weren't as interesting as the ones listed above. Once the Yankees determine which one of these is the problem, they'll be able to address it once and for all. Let's hope they figure it out before tomorrow's game.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

I'm feeling the effects of it. Even after I said I'd go to bed if they didn't score in the 12th, I found myself sticking with it to the end. Francona did a good job managing the team, and you have to give props to Nancy Drew for his contributions. I think the most impressive player last night though was Russell Martin, the Dodgers catcher. He made a lot of impressive plays at home, and even gunned down some runners. I felt bad for Uggla though, who wanted so badly to play in Yankee stadium and then committed 3 errors and struck out 3 times. I still love him though.

It also appears that Papelbon feared for his pregnant wife's life, and couldn't enjoy the All-Star festivities as a result. Now, I'm completely against threatening the lives of pregnant women, but what did Papelbon think the response was going to be like? He tried to back away from his earlier comments about closing over Mariano Rivera, and even gave the whole "It's my competitive nature" line, but his original comments were that he deserved to close the game as much as Mo because he won a world series last season. Never mind that Mariano has pitched for the Yankees for over a decade, has won several championships with them, and is having a much much better season than Papelbon is. The All-Star game is all about this season, not last year's world series. Then Papelbon has the nerve to be shocked by the response. Like its a huge Hardy Boy mystery why people would be upset with him. Look, this isn't Candy Land, this is New York City and if you run your mouth about a Hall of Fame legend in New York City, you're probably not going to be received well. Especially when you're a young talent with a short track record. You take away Mariano, and Papelbon still isn't even the best closer on that All-Star team (Joakim Soria anyone?). Hopefully, he'll learn from this experience.

All in all, I got what I wanted from this game, minus a good nights sleep. As I'm typing this I feel like I'm dreaming. A close game, great players, great pitching, and Kazmir is probably icing his overused arm right now. If he gets injured the Rays are going to be ticked.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

If you have been paying attention to the news or any of the economic indicators than you probably heard about the troubles this country has been facing. With banking giants collapsing and needing a bail out by the feds, and gas prices soaring to unholy heights, the economic problems have been felt by many, including ball players. We at the "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog sent our investigative team to interview players around the majors about the impact of gas prices on their day-to-day lives.

"Its tragic how much I've had to cut back." Explained Yankee shortstop and captain Derek Jeter. "I used to send my private jet to every city we were playing just in case I wanted to take private flights to nearby towns. I can't do that anymore."

"Next year I might have to stop taking my jet to Shea during the subway series. I suppose I could take my Ford Edge, but who the heck wants to drive a Ford Edge?" He continued.

What Derek Jeter reported was a common sentiment among ball players across the country who have been pressed by high gas prices.

"It got so bad I had to trade in my Hummer, for an H2. And everyone knows the H2 is a girl car! Have you seen how small they are? I don't feel safe behind that thing, but I get a couple more miles per gallon out of it, which will save me millions without having to switch to Geico, those cave dwelling mother(expletive deleted)." Described Angels closer Francisco Rodriguez.

"Look, I used to leave the AC running in my car so when I got out of the game it would be nice and cool. Now, I can't afford to do that. I have to leave the AC off, and then my leather seats are all sticky when I get in them. Its inhumane." Stated Boston Red Sox starter Josh Beckett.

"I used to take my yacht to Spain every fall. Now, I can only make it to Iceland, and who the (expletive deleted) wants to go to Iceland?" Asked BJ Ryan from the Toronto Blue Jays.

Even Yankee reliever Kyle Farnsworth had to make some adjustments towards his favorite off season hobby.

"Hunting used to be my favorite hobby. With these gas prices, I simply can't afford all the hunting equipment I like. I mean, no more gas lamps, no more gas powered skillets, no more gas propelled bullets, gas powered beer hats, gas powered beer openers, and even the gas powered satellite TV with the gas powered remote and gas powered TiVo is out."

Despite the problems, some ball players have been using the housing market's woes to their advantage.

"I used to drive to my home 34 miles away after every game. I just bought a house only 3 miles away, which saves me 31 miles every night I play. I also bought houses near every stadium in our division. Even though my team pays for the rental that gets me to the hotel, gas comes out of my pocket." Explained Yankee catcher Jorge Posada.

For the rest of us baseball lovers we can take solace in the fact that our heroes are feeling the economic woes too.

Those were some fireworks last night. If you missed it, Hamilton set a new record in the first round of the Homerun Derby last night with 28 jacks. The balls were flying off his bat. He went on to lose to Morneau but it was still an impressive feat. The question was brought up in the comments section about what Hamilton's contract status was. The man is pacing the rest of the majors with a .310 average, 21 homeruns, and 95 RBI's. And that's only in half a season! There are players out there that would take those numbers for the season.

His left handed swing would look really good at Yankee stadium, but unfortunately, this is Hamilton's second season in the majors, which means he's still a year from arbitration and 4 away from free agency. He's also dealt with injuries in his young career, so that may play out over the next few years. It would be a great trade idea, if Cashman can come up with the right pieces, but the Rangers wouldn't let him go cheap.

Sponsorship Ruining the Homerun Derby

I'm not a big fan of the sponsors suporting the homerun derby. Or better said, I dislike all the sponsoring events like the "Call your shot", and the "Hit it here and win a million dollars", or even the whole "if this player wins, we'll make a donation to X person's Boys and Girls club". It just becomes a circus at some point. With the exception of the charity thing, the winners of these events are typically selected out of the crowd attending the event. So some lucky fan may end up getting a free car who already has the money to drop several thousands to bring themselves and their family to New York and attend the event in the first place. Last year, they were giving away a house. A house!

The Boys and Girls club is a different story. They chose teenagers from different areas of New York to represent their local Boys and Girls club. Then each teenager was assigned a player, and if that player won the derby, that kids Boy's and Girls club would get the donation. With all the money flying around an event like that, why not give them all a little something?

Monday, July 14, 2008

"If the bill passes — the news agency Reuters predicts it will — it would become illegal in Spain to kill apes except in self-defense."

So if you're strolling down a street in Spain and you're attacked by an ape, feel free to kill it. But if you're strolling down a street in Spain and simply come across an ape, you better leave it alone. It's a good thing this bill has been proposed. Since, coming across apes is so common on the Iberian Peninsula and all.

What does this have to do with baseball you ask? Why don't you feel free to shut yourself up, I answer.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

In every season in recent history, the Yankees have seemed to climb into a hole that they were unlikely to climb out of. They've had tough seasons in the last few years, and this one is no different. Where we're out Matsui, Damon, and Wang, I have to say that this has been a good season for injuries. Remember 2005 when we had Chacon, Small and Leiter replacing our injured pitchers? Or in 2006 when we lost Matsui and Sheffield, our two corner outfielders, and the majority of our offense? Or last season when we had so many rookies pitching for us, you had to do a double take to make sure you weren't watching the Staten Island Yankees by accident. Despite this, the Yankees are taking to this seasons slew of injuries like they've never dealt with the DL before. Our rotation is much better than it has been in other years. Even with Wang out, Mussina has been more than stellar, Pettitte, despite his recent start, has been good, and Chamberlain's been pitching like he's always been in the rotation. Throw in the unlikely contributions of Sir Sydney Ponson, and you see a pretty good group of pitchers. Unlike recent seasons however, the trouble does not lie with the pitching, but with the offense. How a lineup with a resurgent Giambi, and a good as ever A-Rod is under performing is beyond me. This team losses a lot of close games, and gets shut out by both great pitchers and crappy fill-ins alike. Peter Abraham mentioned on his blog that the Yankees are on pace to score 742 runs, the fewest since 1992. And we sucked in 1992. So is there any hope?

I for one am a strong believer in the baseball card rule. This rule states that barring injury, any veteran player, no matter how bad they may have started a season, will end up with numbers similar to what they've put up on their baseball card. Remember A-Rod in 2006 when he had that "awful" season? He ended with a .290 average, 35 homeruns, and 121 RBI's. Compare this to his first season with the Yankees where he batted .286 with 36 homeruns and 106 RBI's. Following this rule, you'd believe that the under performing Yankees should return to their norm by the season's end. However, A-Rod, Giambi, and Abreu aren't under performing. They're actually hitting exactly what you could expect them too. Cabrera is under his norm, but he's still too young a player for the rule to apply. Cano and Jeter should be batting better, but is that enough to save this team? Will Matsui and Damon's return save the Yankees? Matsui was the best hitter we had before his injury. Can Posada make up for lost time? I just don't know. What I do know is that Brett Gardner isn't the answer though he could serve as part of the equation. We're not getting career years out of players like we did last year from Posada and A-Rod, or the year before from Jeter and Cano. Something major needs to turn around in order for this team to make a playoff run. I thought they had hit rock bottom when they got killed by Baltimore last month after getting swept by the Mets. It appears I was wrong. We're not that far behind, but losing series to the Toronto Blue Jays and the Pittsburgh Pirates isn't going to help us get anywhere. Neither is squandering quality starts from our pitchers.

Is it time to turn things around? I would have said that was the case months ago, but now, after getting shut down over 8+ innings by 2 Toronto pitchers, I think its time to step it up a little. We're entering the All-Star break now. The Yankees need to rest, regroup, and get themselves mentally ready for the second half of the season. They need to hit the ground running on July 18th. If not, its time to start looking toward 2009, and you better believe this offense will get a face lift this off season.

Giambi and Abreu had a pair of hits, with Giambi knocking one out of the park. Giese and Robertson combined for 2 shutout innings.

The Bad

5 Yankees went hitless today including the ever underperforming C & C boys, and the Yankee captain Derek Jeter. Cabrera, Betemit and Gardner at the back of that lineup is a huge void. You pretty much don't have an inning if those three are up to bat. One of those innings had Cabrera popping up on the first pitch, then Betemit and Gardner striking out back-to-back. No good. Pettitte went 6 innings while giving up 4 runs. Not his sharpest outing.

The Ugly

Once again, Yankee fans were served a 3-run Marco Scutaro homerun against a Yankee great. Last year, it was the walk off against Mariano. Today, it was a 3 run bomb against Pettitte. Do the Yankees have an answer to this animal?

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Giambi hit a homerun in the 9th to save the Yankees from the embarrassment of a Canadian shutout. At this point, the money raised for the children is the only joy I'm getting out of this season.

Many of you probably already know but former Yankee Bobby Murcer died yesterday after a lengthy battle with brain cancer. He was first diagnosed with brain cancer almost two years ago, and went through surgery while taking a break from broadcasting.

Bobby Murcer was an outfielder for the Yankees throughout the early 70's and early 80's with brief stints with the Giants and the Cubs. He unfortunately missed the two championship teams of '77 and '78, but spent 13 of his 18 seasons with the Yankees. He retired from baseball as a Yankee, and became a commentator for us. Needless to say, Murcer will be missed.

9 runs from this team is a lot to ask for of late, but they delivered. 3 RBI's a piece for Jeter (who hit his 200th homerun of his career), A-Rod, and Gardner. Melky had a pair of hits. And also, would you believe that Ramirez-Veras-Farnsworth-Hawkins combined for 4 shut out innings?

The Bad

Rasner lasted 5 innings while giving up 3 earned runs, 4 total.

The Ugly

I took a look at the Yankees lineup from yesterday's game and only 1 player is batting above .300, and that's a $30 million player so he better be above .300. I think the single word that describes the Yankees thus far is "underachievers". Great players...awful results.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Homeruns by A-Rod and Jeter helped keep them ahead in the game, and promote health for children. Thank you guys.

Saturday, July 12, 2008

The Yankees were limited to 2 hits, one by A-Rod and the other by Jeter. Chamberlain got the loss despite his fine pitching performance. Billy Traber gave up 2 runs in 1.1 innings of work.

The Ugly

In every recent season the Yankees have been slow starters. They struggle for the first few months, then start cranking in July. Its now July 12, and we're not seeing any indication that this team is breaking out. The Yankees are only 6.5 games back, and with 2 and a half months left in the season, there's no real reason that the Yankees can't claim a playoff spot. However, the Yankees aren't playing like they're playoff worthy. The pitching has stepped up, but I've never seen our offense so lethargic. They kill their own momentum. They followed a walk off win in the 10th against the Rays by getting dominated by the Pittsburgh Pirates. The best this team has done is go on a 7 game winning streak beating up on Houston and San Diego. We're not facing the National League west anymore, and the Rays and Sox aren't rolling over. If they are going to make it to the post season this year, they'll need to put some fight into their game. Do they have it in them?

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns, and only one extra base hit. Not enough to over come a 5 run deficit.

Friday, July 11, 2008

The Yanks mustered two hits tonight, but in fairness, we were facing Roy Halladay. Joba didn't deserve a loss, but that's life. Moose should've won yesterday, but he didn't because the offense felt that it was only fair that they play the way they were when they were originally in Pittsburgh.

The A-Rod divorce continues to be big news in New York. Keeps us from noticing the stock market tanking and whining about it. I have to assume that the lack of offense is a direct result of the divorce filing. It's hard to hit when you're thinking, "Man, that dude just lost $150M. I've never even seen $150M. I wonder if you can swim in that much money?"

A-Rod will be okay, and in fairness, Cynthia does serve as his hitting coach in the off-season and is a big reason he was able to sign so large a contract. But why lament the unfairness of it all? I hear A-Rod didn't sign a prenup, which if that is true, he has earned the loss of half his money. Really A-Rod? No prenup and you're out doing all that nonsense? Maybe you shouldn't have signed a major league contract right out of high school.

I just got the new blu-ray of Batman Begins, thanks to my wealthy brother, and it has the first five minutes of the Dark Knight and it looks incredible. I thought it was weird that they kill off both the Joker and Batman in the first two minutes, and that the next three consist of credits, but why question a genius like Christopher Nolan?

Mussina pitched 6 innings of 2 run ball, with Robertson pitching a scoreless inning of his own. Jeter had a pair of hits as Abreu knocked in both of the Yankee runs. Christian and Abreu both stole a base.The Bad

Sloppy play coupled with ice cold bats proved to be enough for one of the worst teams in the majors to beat the Yankees. If you're counting at home, that would be a 2-1 series wins by the Pirates over the Yankees.

The Ugly

That's another good start wasted by the Yankees. I'm really pulling for Mussina to be a 20 game winner this season, and its not so far fetched if the Yankees would maybe, I don't know, score some runs. 2 starts ago he pitched 6 innings of 2 run ball and got the loss against Texas, now he pitches 6 innings of 2 run ball against the Pirates and gets a no decision. Can the Yankees win some friggin' games for the man!?

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns yesterday as the Yankees feared a homerun might put them over their 2 run per game limit.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Former Mariner's slugger Richie Sexson was just released after underperforming for the last 2 seasons. Personally, I think New York should sign Sexson. Not the Yankees mind you, but the Knicks. With how bad the Knicks are I really don't see how this wouldn't be an improvement for them.

With everything surfacing about A-Rod's divorce its hard not to get caught up in the headlines. There was the one about Cynthia going on a Paris spending spree, and the one about another blond stripper recounting her jump off with Alex, and so on and so forth. I'm sure many more will come out in time. Now I know that womanizing is as much apart of baseball tradition as Cracker Jacks, and performance enhancers, but its an ugly part of the culture. And I know, A-Rod's probably just trying to take after his idle: Derek Jeter, probably the biggest womanizer on the team. However, the fact is, Jeter isn't married and A-Rod is. Now I just think A-Rod's a douche. Especially after this article about Cynthia Rodriguez. The fact is, no married woman deserves this. If you want to be a swinger, then don't get married. I'm not a believer in womanizing, but if you're going to do it, stay off the altar. It is that simple.

The Yankees once again won a game in extra innings with a walk off hit. This time, it was a walk off double by Bobby Abreu, which scored the captain, Derek Jeter from first. Derek Jeter scored both of the Yankee runs. Ponson pitched 6 innings of 1 run ball, which was good enough for a win, however, he got a no decision since the Yankees didn't score again until the 10th. Veras-Farnsworth-Rivera shut out the Rays through 4 innings, which included a 2-inning 4 strikeout performance by Mariano Rivera.

The Bad

6 innings of 1 run ball by Edwin Jackson? Really?

The Ugly

The Twins got swept by Boston, which means that although we gained on the Rays, the Sox stay up. The Twins suck.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. No homeruns yesterday as the Yankees went with a small ball approach.

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Ok, so this post is long overdue, but I had family in town and I basically haven't used my computer since Saturday.

I was at the extra innings game where the Yankees banded together as brothers in order to defeat the Red Empire (that's right, I called those Bostonians commies, what are they going to do about it?). It was a great game. What transpired afterwards was more interesting.

Because of where we were sitting we had to exit through gate 4A. For those of us looking to ride the B or D train, that means pretty much walking all the way around Yankee Stadium since they blocked off the other approach. This one kid was asking the cops if he could go past the barrier to more easily get to the subway station. The cop was saying no and the kid, probably mid 20s, was trying to point out that it would be much faster not to walk around Yankee Stadium. The kid was not yelling, he was not drunk, he was not disrespectful, but for having the shear balls to suggest that walking all the way around Yankee Stadium to get to a point about 100 yards away was at least inefficient the cop put him in hand cuffs. The exact thing the cop shouted at him was, "Show me your I.D., I tell you what to do, you don't tell me what to do." Then he cuffed him. I appreciated the way the pause between "show me your I.D." and the 'I'm the boss here' line was exactly zero seconds. Seemed unnecessary. Hopefully they just detained him and then told him to be on his way, but if they arrested him, that's bullshit. Arguing with a cop is not a crime, especially if you're not belligerent.

Then, we saw Posada drive out of the player parking lot in his white Audi. A short while later Jeter drove out in his Ford Expedition. With Florida plates of course. Classy move by Jeter to drive the car he sponsors, at least in that very public venue. Both players waved to the crowd as they screamed their names. I thought I saw Billy Traber drive out too, but it's hard to say because I don't really know what he looks like.

I got home around 1:45am. There's nothing you want more than to be stuck riding the New York subway system that late at night, but there was a surprisingly large number of people on the trains even at that advanced hour. I frankly didn't realize how late it was until I looked at my watch. The number of people around made it feel earlier. That doesn't, however, change the fact that night games in NYC shouldn't start at 8pm, even for ESPN. If the game goes long, which Yankees-Red Sox often do, or into extras, people are forced to be riding public transportation at an hour that is less than 100% safe. Something to think about.

Today the Yankees again won in the tenth, this time off Abreu. Now that we know the Rays are indeed mortal, we must go for blood. I suggest mailing mean spirited letters to Tropicana Stadium. With their feelings hurt, they won't be in first place for long.

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Wow. 8 innings of shutout ball from Andy Pettitte was just what we needed. Ramirez closed the game out with a scoreless inning of his own. 5 Yankees had 2 hits, and Melky hit his 8th homerun of the season, tieing his career high for a single season. Jeter knocked in the first two runs when he came up with runners in scoring position and 2 outs and hit a double. It was, what's the word? Clutch. Jeter also made an amazing play to his right and then did his patented spin throw to second for a spectacular hit robbing play.

The Bad

Despite the homerun, Melky continues to struggle as he recorded 3 strikeouts, and couldn't lay down a bunt when he needed to. That's one player I really want to snap out of a slump.

The Ugly

Before Jeter's hit in the 3rd, Ken Singleton said that the Yankees are batting .257 with runners in scoring position this season, 12th in the American League. That's a league of 14 teams, and features such clubs as the Baltimore Orioles, the Kansas City Royals, the Oakland Athletics, and the Seattle Mariners.

Respect Jeter's Gangster is for the Children

The "Respect Jeter's Gangster" blog joined Johnny Damon's home run club, which raises money for the Children's Health Fund. We are pledged to donate $1.00 for every homerun the Yankees hit this season. We will keep a running tally of the home runs hit and the money donated throughout the season. Melky hit his first homerun since May, and has tied his previous season high.